If yet another (!) election was called tomorrow, would you be able to vote?

Residents across Wrexham are being sent forms asking to check and update their information (if required) on the electoral register.

Known as the ‘Annual Canvass’ the exercise makes sure that anyone who isn’t on the register can get their names on on it quickly. You may not be on there because you’ve recently moved house or have just turned 18. Whatever the reason if you aren’t on the register you can’t vote.

As soon as you receive the form please check the details. You then have two options:

• If all the details remain the same visit www.householdresponse.com/wrexham, call 0800 197 9871 or text NOCHANGE followed by both parts of your security code to 80212 – standard charges will apply.

• If the details need to be updated or if someone needs to be added or removed you should visit www.householdresponse.com/wrexham and make the necessary changes. Once this is done you should register new people on www/gov.uk/register-to-vote. You will need to have your National Insurance Number available. If you are unable to register online you will be sent an Invitation to Register form which you should complete. Once this is done you will be registered to vote.

Research by the independent Electoral Commission has found that home movers are far less likely to be registered than those that have lived at the same address for a long time. 94% of people who have been at their property for more than sixteen years will be registered compared to 30% of people who have lived in an address for less than one year.

Private renters are also far less likely to be registered than those who own their property outright with 95% of home owners in Wales on the electoral register compared to 51% of private renters.

Dr Helen Paterson, Returning Officer, said: “It’s really important that you respond as soon as possible so we can make sure we have the right details on the electoral register.

“We’re not expecting to go to the polls again for some time but, as has happened earlier this year, an election can be called at any time so please get on the register now by completing the form and returning it as soon as possible.”

It’s also a legal requirement to give the information asked for in the Annual Canvass – even if you have no changes to make. There is the possibility that you could be fined up to £1,000 for not doing anything so please open the form as soon as it arrives and do what’s required.